DT Maurice Hurst NFL Draft Profile

Strengths:

Maurice Hurst has an elite first step and is one of the most explosive defensive tackles off the ball. His get-off and his ability to use his hands and arms to disengage blocks helps him rush the passer and get free to play the run. Hurst consistently lives in the backfield. He carries a lot of his weight in his upper body, which shows how strong he plays. The Michigan senior has a motor that doesn’t stop and he doesn’t stop playing until the echo of the whistle. Does a great job of recognizing plays. Also excellent staying in to contain the run game, while also penetrating the pocket and blowing plays up.

Weaknesses:

Balance is a big concern with me for Hurst. Too often Hurst is on the ground after getting a great jump off the ball. I would like to see him bulk up his lower half, as I see that helping with his balance issues and his ability to use leverage to walk offensive lineman back into the pocket. Struggles eating double teams, which makes sense because he is an undersized defensive tackle. Can get turned around in the run game allowing holes to open up around him. For his size, wish he had a little more long speed to go with his explosive first step.

Giphy:

Pro Comparison:

Timmy Jernigan

Overall Review:

Maurice Hurst will make his money as a pass rusher early on in his career. His elite first step and ability to use his strength will make him an instant impact on whatever team lands the Michigan defensive tackle. If Hurst can bulk up just a bit that will make me feel much better about his ability to hold up in the middle of defensive lines or playing as a defensive end in 3-4 schemes. Maurice Hurst has a very high ceiling, but also has a high floor as well. If he can develop just a bit as a run defender and playing with better pad level he will be a dominant force for years to come.